Source: Beef Improvement Federation

If you’re searching for a contemporary group to take your genetic management to the next level, then look no further than the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) annual meeting, June 18-21 at the University Comfort Suites and Convention Center in Brookings, S.D.

Why is that? Each year the BIF symposium draws a large group of leading seedstock and commercial beef producers, academics and allied industry partners. The attendance list is a “who’s who” of the beef value chain, offering great networking opportunities and conversations about the issues of the day. Program topics focus on how the beef industry can enhance value through genetic improvement across a range of attributes that affect the value chain.

The meeting kicks off with an industry tour Friday, June 21. Stops will include Millborn Seeds, Redstone Feeders, Wienk Charolais and Schadé Winery. A spousal tour is also planned for Wednesday, June 19. It will include stops at McCrory Gardens, Schadé Winery and Local Foods Education Center.

This year’s BIF symposium features two and a half days of educational programming and a full day of tours. The first morning’s general session — “Applications of Technology” — will feature Mark Allan, Trans Ova Genetics director of genetic technology; Alison Van Eenennaam, U.C. Davis animal biotechnology and genomics extension specialist; and a producer panel including John Moes, Moes Feedlot, Watertown, South Dakota; Trey Patterson, Padlock Ranch, Ranchester, Wyoming; Tylor Braden, King Ranch, Kingsville, Texas; and John Maddux, Maddux Cattle Co., Wauneta, Nebraska.

Related:BIF celebrates 50 years of helping cattlemen produce better cattle

The second day’s general session, “Utilization of Big Data,” will include presentations by John Genho, Neogen Corporation; Dr. Mark Trotter, Central Queensland University; and Jeremy Howard, Smithfield Premium Genetics.

The afternoon breakout sessions both days will focus on a range of beef production and genetic improvement topics. The conference also features a Young Producer Symposium on Tuesday afternoon, designed for networking and to equip young cattle producers with essential knowledge as they grow their role in the business. Tuesday evening attendees will also enjoy an opening reception followed by the National Association of Animal Breeders Symposium at 7:00 p.m.

Online registration is available at http://www.beefimprovement.org.